New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A5562

Introduced
6/5/23  
Refer
6/5/23  
Report Pass
6/5/23  
Engrossed
12/21/23  

Caption

Requires electric public utilities to submit new tariffs for commercial customers for BPU approval; regulates non-volumetric electricity fees charged to operators of fast charging electric vehicle chargers.

Impact

By establishing a framework where utilities are required to create a cost structure that does not impose burdensome demand charges for EV charging stations, the bill addresses concerns regarding the financial feasibility of operating such facilities. This regulation is expected to level the playing field between commercial and residential tariffs, promoting fairness in the pricing mechanism. Moreover, the bill encourages alternatives to traditional demand-based charges, thereby fostering innovation and investment in EV infrastructure.

Summary

Assembly Bill A5562, introduced in New Jersey, focuses on the provision of electric power specifically for electric vehicle (EV) charging facilities. The bill mandates that electric public utilities submit new tariff structures for commercial customers to the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) approval. It aims to deregulate non-volumetric electricity fees applicable to the operators of fast charging electric vehicle chargers to make EV charging more economically feasible and promote investment in EV charging technology. Through these measures, the bill seeks to facilitate greater adoption of electric vehicles in the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding A5562 has been largely positive, particularly among environmental advocates and those in the electric vehicle sector, who view it as a critical step toward enhancing EV adoption and improving infrastructure. However, there may also be concerns from utility companies regarding the potential impact on their revenue models. Advocates argue that the bill's implementation will lead to a more sustainable environment, while critics may emphasize the importance of maintaining a balance that ensures utilities can operate effectively without compromising their service quality.

Contention

A point of contention that arises in discussions about this bill is how it impacts existing revenue mechanisms for public utilities derived from capacity and demand charges. As the bill proposes eliminating such charges for DC fast charging facilities, this could lead to significant shifts in economic paradigms for utility operations. Proponents argue that this move is essential for stimulating the market for electric vehicles, while opponents might worry that it could hinder utilities' ability to manage energy loads and maintain infrastructure investments, potentially leading to unintended consequences.

Companion Bills

NJ S3914

Same As Requires electric public utilities to submit new tariffs for commercial customers for BPU approval; regulates non-volumetric electricity fees charged to operators of fast charging electric vehicle chargers.

Previously Filed As

NJ S655

Requires electric public utilities to submit new tariffs for commercial customers for BPU approval; regulates non-volumetric electricity fees charged to operators of fast charging electric vehicle chargers.

NJ A2894

"Electricity Bill Transparency Act"; requires electric utilities to separately list amounts of certain charges.

NJ S1928

"Electricity Bill Transparency Act"; requires electric utilities to separately list amounts of certain charges.

CA AB1423

Transportation electrification: electric vehicle charging stations: payment methods.

CA AB1302

Electricity: customer generators: departing load charges.

NJ A4518

Requires electric public utilities to submit transmission project proposal to BPU for approval.

NJ S3193

Requires electric public utilities to submit transmission project proposal to BPU for approval.

WA SB5750

Concerning fees for charging electrical vehicles at state facilities.

KS HB2414

Establishing the EV energy equity road repair tax act and providing for a road repair tax on electricity distributed from a public charging station for electric vehicles.

NJ S2711

Requires BPU to prohibit electric and gas public utilities from charging residential customers certain types of payments based on certain billing practices.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.